Queensland State Migration Program Now Open!

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Published: 17 September 2024
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Obtaining State Nomination from Queensland is always highly competitive, and this year will be no different. With a smaller number of places available, Migration Queensland will focus on applicants working in occupations with proven shortages in key growing industries.

While considering all occupations currently on the Skilled Occupations Lists (MLTSSL, STSOL, and ROL), Migration Queensland will place an emphasis on occupations in the following fields:

  • Energy
  • Construction and infrastructure
  • Healthcare and social assistance
  • Education
  • Professional services
  • Agribusiness
  • Tourism and hospitality
  • Transport

Certain occupations such as Chef, Cook, Teachers, and Child Care Centre Manager will only be considered for a Subclass 491 nomination in regional Queensland (generally, anywhere outside of Brisbane).

There are four pathways available this program year:

  • Skilled Workers Living in Queensland – requires Proficient English, employment in Queensland of at least 30 hours per week for 3 or 6 months (for the 491 and 190 visa respectively), and evidence of ongoing employment
  • Queensland Graduates – completed 100% of a Bachelor degree or higher in Queensland, Proficient English, work experience in a Skill Level 1 occupation of at least 30 hours per week for 3 or 6 months (for the 491 and 190 visa respectively), and evidence of ongoing employment
  • Small Business Owner (491 visa only) – Business purchase or start-up with investment and turnover requirements, applicant working in the business at 30 hours per week for at least 6 months, 100% ownership of the business
  • Skilled Workers Outside Australia – occupation on the Offshore Queensland Skilled Occupation List (priority is given to Energy sector workers), Proficient English, and at least 5 years skilled employment experience in your nominated occupation or a closely related occupation

All applicants must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) with Immigration via the SkillSelect system, then lodge a Registration of Interest (ROI) with Migration Queensland.

Invitation rounds are held throughout the financial year. If invited by Queensland, applicants only have 14 days to provide their completed form and documents or their registration will be closed.

It is therefore crucial to ensure that all required documents supporting the EOI and ROI are readily available. AVIE’s team of experienced Migration Agents will work with you to collate everything required and put your best application forward for Nomination